MTAiQ at the 2019 NAEN Conference

On Thursday 2 August, James Orr, Chief Technology Innovation Officer from the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTA Queensland) held a Masterclass at the Beyond 2020 National Apprentice Employment Network (NAEN) Conference on the Gold Coast. James is also a key innovation change-maker for the automotive/mobility industry with a leadership role at MTAiQ – Australian’s first automotive innovation hub.

The Conference attracted attendance from Group Training Organisation professionals across Australia who are invested in improving employment opportunities and outcomes for Australia’s future apprentices and trainees. At a time of landmark change in the country’s employment and training landscape, the Conference delegates were given insights from Australia’s leaders in the vocational education and training sector, with a focus on apprenticeships and traineeships.

The theme ‘Beyond 2020’, is in response to shifts in federal government policies, with a stronger political spotlight on employment through apprenticeships and traineeships, and an education system under review.

James works closely with start-ups and entrepreneurs who collaborate with MTAiQ as well as consulting with member businesses who are navigating the digital era. James’ masterclass covered:

The changing world of work, skilling and apprenticeships

Challenges to conventional thinking and business models

The way the ‘share’ economy is influencing other industries

How emerging technologies can be applied to existing business models

How labour and skill shortages can be eased through higher utilisation

How skill profiling is attracting new entrants to industry

The future of collaboration for GTOs and peak industry organisations

In the masterclass, James explained how MTA Queensland is leading the way for industry to build and utilise new skill sets linked to emerging technology like augmented reality, virtual reality and artificial intelligence. There are also huge advancements in automation in areas like driverless vehicles and developments in new fuel technologies. He also announced some exciting developments coming for the automotive industry, utilising blockchain technology.

James said, “The masterclass session was incredibly positive. It was fantastic to present at such an important event and share insights into what is happening in the automotive and mobility industry and the future skill requirements for apprentices and trainees in the sector.”

5 Aug 2019

MTA Group

MTA Queensland is the peak body representing the interests of employers in the retail, service and repair sectors of Queensland’s automotive industry.

MTA Institute (RTO No. 31529) is the largest private provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland.

MTAiQ, Australia’s first automotive innovation hub, is a facility offering an eco-system that supports innovation in the motor trades.